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Giving thanks: 5 items at the top of locals’ thankful list

With some challenged through economic instability, it’s a privilege to have financial stability. That’s why Wesley, Suzanne and their son, Griffon Hubbell, said they are thankful to have a brand new home where they can eat Thanksgiving dinner. “We are thankful for our new house. My husband and I built this home,” Suzanne, 34, said. “We are definitely thankful for our home and for our jobs that allow us to have a new home for our son to grow up in.”

Kris JohnsonStaff Writer

Published: Wednesday, November 21, 2012 at 9:45 a.m.

Last Modified: Wednesday, November 21, 2012 at 9:45 a.m.

Thanksgiving is the one day during the year reserved for showing thanks for your good health, family and friends.

The other 364 days of the year, that gratitude goes without saying. But besides loved ones, what else are folks thankful for?

Big Fun put together a list of the top five things locals said they appreciate. Maybe some of these apply to your life.

A GUARDIAN ANGEL

April Lyons, 27, is more than just a sibling, her sister, Angel Ledet, 28, said. In the past year, Lyons has been more like a guardian angel.

“She is the only reason my kids had one birthday present each because times have been so tough,” Ledet said. “She is also the only reason my kids will have a Christmas. She and her husband plan on helping me get them a few things each.”

Ledet, 28, is unemployed and does not have a vehicle. Her younger sister has given constant tangible, as well as emotional, support, Ledet said. Lyons, mother of three, has even brought food and hand-me-down clothes, shoes and toys from her own home.

“Sometimes she even goes through her clothes and gives me a few things,” Ledet said. “I have learned over the past year or two that my pride will fly out the window when it comes to caring for my kids. Sometimes people just need the help, and I, for one, am not afraid to accept it when I need it. I appreciate everything she does for me, and I want her to know that. We may not always see eye to eye, and I’m sure there will be times in the future where we disagree on some things. But I love her very much and am thankful for her.”

A NEW HOME

With some challenged through economic instability, it’s a privilege to have financial stability. That’s why Wesley, Suzanne and their son, Griffon Hubbell, said they are thankful to have a brand new home where they can eat Thanksgiving dinner.

“We are thankful for our new house. My husband and I built this home,” Suzanne, 34, said. “We are definitely thankful for our home and for our jobs that allow us to have a new home for our son to grow up in.”

A NEW BABY … DRAGON

Instead of dressing a puppy or kitten in cute, tiny winter clothes, Brittany Williams will sport a pet she can carry on her shoulder, and it isn’t a parrot.

Williams’ pet is a 2-year-old, 16-½-inch Bearded Dragon. Named Maximus Decimus Meridius after Russell Crowe’s “Gladiator” character, Williams said the dragon is “spoiled rotten by his mama and daddy.”

“This year I’m thankful for my new baby,” Williams said. “He loves car rides on my shoulder and running free around the house. I’ve only had him for four months, but he’s already stolen my heart.”

NEWLYWEDS CELEBRATE THEIR FIRST HOLIDAY SEASON

Married Aug. 26, one Houma couple had to brave their first major storm a few days later when Hurricane Isaac made landfall. The newlyweds, Brett and Allison Badgerow, are now ready to take on the challenge of preparing for the busy holiday season. Thanksgiving is just the beginning for the couple, Brett said, and he can’t wait for them to share the first turkey day of their marriage.

“I am most thankful for Aug. 26, 2012,” Brett said. “It was the day I married my best friend, the love of my life. This will be our first Thanksgiving as husband and wife.”

DOGS ARE PART OF THE FAMILY TOO

The phrase “you don’t realize what you have until it’s gone,” is true for people, items, as well as pets. And it’s never been more applicable in Jonas Dominique’s life until this past year, he said.

“This year I have been very lucky to have my dogs,” Dominique said. “They are my best friends. Ben is the white labradoodle and Amber is the dark gold Lab.”

Dominique said Ben, a 1-year-old puppy, is his constant companion.

“Unfortunately, Amber has cancer,” he said. “She is 9, and she is the most amazing hunting and sport dog. But she’s sick, and I’m praying that she will make it to next Thanksgiving. It sounds mushy. But I really have valued her more now that I have been threatened with losing her. My dogs are amazing.”

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